TN School Directory
Browse 22 accredited trade schools and vocational training programs in Tennessee
22
Schools
9
Cities
15
Trade Programs
Tennessee has one of the most accessible trade school networks in the country thanks to the Tennessee College of Applied Technology (TCAT) system, with 24 campuses statewide offering low-cost diplomas and certificates. Combined with the state's tuition-free TN Reconnect and TN Promise programs, Tennessee residents can often complete trade training with minimal out-of-pocket cost.
Tennessee's automotive manufacturing belt (Nissan in Smyrna, Volkswagen in Chattanooga, Ford's BlueOval City, GM Spring Hill) has created strong demand for industrial maintenance, welding, automotive, and electrical trades. Healthcare and HVAC are growing fast in Nashville and Memphis. TCAT graduates report among the highest job placement rates of any state-run system.
Based on hiring activity, employer demand, and program enrollment in TN.
Chattanooga and Nashville have some of the strongest HVAC search demand in the country
BlueOval City and existing OEM plants need skilled welders
Multiple OEM plants and a deep aftermarket supplier base
Vanderbilt, HCA, and Methodist Le Bonheur drive Nashville/Memphis demand
Nashville and Memphis are major freight hubs (FedEx World Hub is in Memphis)
Typical range
$3,500–$15,000
Total tuition
Listed school avg.
$8,922
Across 22 schools
Schools listed
22
In 9 cities
See our full trade school cost guide for state-by-state breakdowns and a deeper look at how to fund your training.
Trade licensing in TN varies by program. Here's what you'll typically need to legally work in each field after training:
| Trade | TN Requirement |
|---|---|
| Electrician | Tennessee LLE (Limited Licensed Electrician) license; statewide BC-A or BC-B for contractors |
| Plumber | CMC license required for plumbing contractors over $25k; municipal licensing for journeymen |
| HVAC Technician | EPA 608 required; CMC-A license for HVAC contractors |
| CDL | Class A/B issued by TN DOS; ELDT-compliant training required |
| Cosmetology | 1,500 hours + TN State Board exam |
For many residents, yes. TN Promise covers tuition for recent high school graduates at TCAT and community colleges. TN Reconnect covers tuition for adults returning to school. Both apply to most trade programs at state institutions.
Tennessee College of Applied Technology is the state-run trade school system with 24 campuses. Programs are short, low-cost, and TCAT consistently reports placement rates above 80% — often above 90% in HVAC, welding, and industrial maintenance.
TCAT Chattanooga's HVAC diploma program typically runs 12-16 months. Private programs in the area can be completed in 6-9 months. EPA 608 certification is included or available as part of most programs.
5100 Poplar Avenue, Suite 132, Memphis, TN 38137
$22,000
800 students
568 Colonial Road, Memphis, TN 38117
$16,200
250 students
3419 Plaza Avenue, Memphis, TN 38111
$19,500
250 students
5983 Macon Cove, Memphis, TN 38134
$4,500
9,000 students
550 Alabama Ave, Memphis, TN 38105
$4,320
1,960 students
550 Alabama Ave, Memphis, TN 38105
$4,320
1,960 students
1200 Poplar Avenue, Memphis, TN 38104
$9,500
500 students
560 Royal Parkway, Nashville, TN 37214
$13,500
600 students
2813 Brick Church Pike, Nashville, TN 37207
$28,000
1,500 students
120 White Bridge Pike, Nashville, TN 37209
$4,500
8,000 students
100 White Bridge Rd., Nashville, TN 37209
$4,620
1,101 students
100 White Bridge Rd., Nashville, TN 37209
$4,620
1,101 students
4501 Amnicola Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37406
$4,611
2,300 students
4501 Amnicola Highway, Chattanooga, TN 37406
$4,611
2,300 students
1100 Liberty Street, Knoxville, TN 37919
$4,320
1,206 students
1100 Liberty Street, Knoxville, TN 37919
$4,320
1,206 students
1303 Old Fort Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
$5,105
630 students
1303 Old Fort Parkway, Murfreesboro, TN 37129
$5,105
630 students
With 22 options to compare, choosing the right trade school takes some research. Here are some key factors to consider when evaluating programs in TN: